Tag Jim Cymbala

Starting in July, I am adding a new menu item. Do I sound like a restaurant?

What shall it be then?

An appetitzer? Main course? dessert?

I think we’ll call it the “tantalizer”.

Have you ever heard of the renowned author E. M. Bounds? If not, let me introduce you to his remarkable works. His book, which I possess, is a culmination of all his literary contributions, condensed into one substantial volume. Over the years, I have derived immense satisfaction from reading portions of this book. Its profound impact compels me to soak in its pages trying to absorb the truth. I never come away disappointed. If you haven’t had the chance to explore this literary gem, I highly recommend you read this book.

As the introduction written by Jim Cymbala of The Brooklyn Tabernacle says regarding his book, “You either stand near to enjoy its warmth, or you move away because the flame seems too much to bear.”

I agree. Sometimes the flames are torturerous.

Believing the literal truth

E.M. Bounds deeply valued the literal truth of God’s word when it came to prayer, an aspect that I believe many of us tend to overlook, and I must admit that I fall in that category as well. Bounds’ unwavering faith in taking God’s word at face value, particularly in relation to prayer, is an inspiration that prompts us to reevaluate our own practices.

His perspective highlights the importance of embracing a similar approach towards prayer. By doing so, we can deepen our connection with God and experience the transformative power of prayer in our lives.

For me, I think I am praying and believing that if I believe what I’m praying, my prayers will be answered. (Yes, I mean it’s just the way I wrote it, convoluted though it is.)

The truth, though? I think if I really did believe it, I would pray much bigger than I do.

Don’t look at me askance. How many of you really believe that if you were to pray really big for something like world peace, it would happen? We really don’t think that way, do we?

Prayer as conversation

All of this is just to point out that prayer, while really quite simple (after all, it’s only a conversation between two people), is complex. Not because prayer itself is complex but because we are. Prayers in the Bible are simple (and short, I might add). I wonder how we made it so complicated.  

The longest prayer is found in Nehemiah 9:5-38, that’s only thirty-three verses.This prayer, which can be read in just a few minutes, holds great power and significance. Its deep and heartfelt words resonate with us, conveying a profound sense of devotion/

The remarkable aspect of this prayer lies in its concise yet impactful nature. Despite its brevity, it encompasses a multitude of emotions and intentions and serves as a source of inspiration when we need guidance.

E. M. Bound’s book is a profound source of inspiration and motivation for me. (For some reason, I am unable to download the image, but you can find it here on Amazon.)

Prayer, though simple, offers limitless opportunities for growth and understanding. I highly recommend purchasing the book or borrowing it from your local library, as it allows you to savor its wisdom, even if only a few sentences at a time.

God bless and have a great day.

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